Founded in 1918, Lee University. is a Private college. Located in Tennessee, which is a city setting in Tennessee, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 4,821 full time undergraduate students, and 481 full time graduate students.
The Lee University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 17:1. There are 175 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Lee University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
87%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
25
SAT Range
920-1180
ACT Range
21-28
Admissions at are considered Less Selective, with ,76% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 39 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
77% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 51% were in the top quarter, and 22% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Lee University.
3%
“We”re apathetic”
29%
“We know about current events and vote”
68%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
1%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
0%
“We save it for the classroom”
5%
“Sometimes, but not often”
59%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
36%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
3%
“I only go out in groups”
28%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
69%
“I feel extremely safe”
26%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
51%
“We bought the gear”
23%
“We live for the big game”
5%
“It”s not really our thing”
5%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
33%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
56%
“We”re a very artistic group”
1%
“Haven”t met them”
1%
“Available in class”
40%
“They keep regular office hours”
57%
“They”re always available”
4%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
15%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
79%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
1%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
53%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
41%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
6%
“We only party on weekends”
0%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
44%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
55%
“There might be people who do”
1%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
0%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
3%
“We”re apathetic”
29%
“We know about current events and vote”
68%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
1%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
0%
“We save it for the classroom”
5%
“Sometimes, but not often”
59%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
36%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
3%
“I only go out in groups”
28%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
69%
“I feel extremely safe”
26%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
51%
“We bought the gear”
23%
“We live for the big game”
5%
“It”s not really our thing”
5%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
33%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
56%
“We”re a very artistic group”
1%
“Haven”t met them”
1%
“Available in class”
40%
“They keep regular office hours”
57%
“They”re always available”
4%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
15%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
79%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
1%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
148 Students rated on-campus housing 4.2 stars. 34 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
92 Students rated off-campus housing 4 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
149 Students rated campus food 3.4 stars. 11 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
153 Students rated campus facilities 4.5 stars. 60 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
154 Students rated class size 4.6 stars. 63 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
151 Students rated school activities 4.3 stars. 50 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
153 Students rated local services 4.1 stars. 43 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
153 Students rated academics 4.5 stars. 65 % gave the school a 5.0.
Lee University REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of Lee University?
102 Students rated Lee University
Jax - 03/25/2025
Lee University is a fantastic school that prioritizes a student's education, well-being, and their relationship with God. Not only are the professors extremely qualified to teach their respected classes, but each one is individually pursuing a relationship with the Lord which leads to a common goal across both students and faculty.
Alayna - 01/09/2025
Lee University is an excellent school that challenges its students educationally and spiritually. While the professors are concerned with preparing their students academically for their future careers, they are also intentional about preparing their students for wherever God may lead them. The professors facilitate thoughtful conversations during class that do not scratch the surface of topics required to be covered, but dive deep into the material so that the students are encouraged to apply any lesson learned to their own lives as well. An open exchange of ideas is encouraged both inside the classroom as well as outside the academic setting. Education in this manner equips the students for the most successful life, guaranteeing the necessary life skills to thrive in any career.
Alma - 10/26/2024
I believe that a university should not have a say in the sexual or gender identity of their students. There are many students who are members of the LGBTQ+ community that are afraid to come out, afraid of facing violence/hatred from other students, and have been expelled from the university due to their sexual or gender identity.
Olivia - 08/07/2024
I think Lee University is a place where academic achievement and spiritual growth come together in a uniquely meaningful way. As a Christian institution, Lee University deeply integrates faith with learning, creating an environment where students can thrive both intellectually and spiritually. The university’s commitment to spiritual development is evident in its diverse range of religious activities, from engaging chapel services to impactful service projects, which help students grow in their faith and contribute to their communities.
The School of Music at Lee is particularly impressive, offering students a robust program that stands out nationally. With top-notch facilities and a dedicated faculty, students have the chance to excel in both performance and academic study. Whether it's joining the acclaimed Lee University Choir or performing with the Symphony Orchestra, students benefit from countless opportunities to showcase their talents and gain valuable professional experience.
Greek life at Lee also adds a rich dimension to the college experience. The vibrant fraternities and sororities on campus provide a close-knit community where students can forge lifelong friendships, develop leadership skills, and engage in meaningful service activities. The Greek organizations at Lee are known for their supportive atmosphere and dedication to fostering a sense of belonging.
In essence, Lee University blends its strong spiritual focus, exceptional music programs, and active Greek life to offer a well-rounded and fulfilling college experience that equips students for both professional success and personal growth.
anna - 07/09/2024
Lee University felt like home the second I stepped onto campus as a visitor. The professors communicate passion for their subjects. The lectures at this school inspire a love of learning. More than that, a strong emphasis on service prevails at this school. It provides students with service clubs, as well as community. Making life long friends while making a difference is always a plus.
Lukus - 05/29/2024
My opinion of Lee University is something that will make others see it differently than most other colleges. The environment is something to be seen for starters, even as a visitor the time I had there because of the people was off the charts to what I thought it was going to be like. They would reach out to guest and their families, they are being the students. The food was really good including the other dietary items they had available to those who needed it. But something I found just as incredible as the other two points I made is the accessibility of the faculty and the classroom learning they had to offer. All in all the whole college to me was giving a extraordinary vibe to me and the people I was with.
Andrew - 03/11/2024
Lee University is a great school if you're all about Jesus Christ and academics. The food is not all that great but that goes for most colleges. The classes are awesome and I am very excited to learn more and more. Chapel services are every tuesday and thursday which keeps me alive throughout the week.
Jacob - 08/21/2023
I love Lee University! I am a current dual enrollment student their and the facilities, extracurriculars, sports, food, professors, and classes are all great. There is plenty of food to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters, and the Greek life is a major part of being a student at Lee University. The professors are clearly passionate about what they teach and are easily accessible both in and out of the classroom. Aside from the lecture halls (which house about 70 people max), the class sizes are small enough to make you feel comfortable but engaged and gives you ease of access to talking with and recieving help from a professor. Overall, I love Lee University and cannot wait to go there after I graduate highschool this year. Go Flames!
Panagiota - 07/14/2023
Lee is an amazing university that provides excellent academic training and an amazing residential life. Lee trains its students not only for academic success but also with real life experience by offering its students plenty of opportunity to work and develop their skills. By gaining academic excellence and practical experience, Lee prepares you for real life outside of school.
Daniel - 02/05/2023
I really enjoy Lee University. If you want a good Christ-Centered University, Lee University is the place for you. The faculty, students, and facilities are all amazing. If you need help, the professors have their doors open to you to talk about anything you might need. The students are very welcoming and the different facilities are great places to study!
Abigail - 01/18/2023
Lee is a good place for those who are willing to buy in and adapt to its quirks. It is a Christian school, and would definitely be a bit uncomfortable to attend if one isn't super religious. Though expensive, the campus is nice. The professors really care about the students, and the relationships I've built with them are invaluable.
Andrew - 09/23/2022
It is an excellent example of a Christian school that upholds the faith while also engaging with difficult issues and prepares its students to live in a diverse and complex world. In spite of it being a school affiliated with the Church of God, there is a diverse community of ideas and backgrounds which fosters a wonderful community of love and encouragement.
Jessica - 07/31/2022
Lee is a pretty great place if you fit the mold. A lot of people at Lee think and act the same way, and it's pretty easy to not feel like you don't fit in. There are most likely other people like you, you just have to look a lot harder. If you want to major in STEM like me, you're probably better off at another school more equipped for it. Their main focus is their Pastoral Ministries and Music majors. It is a relatively safe campus, but it is open, so there is always ongoing potential for something to happen. The professors are very caring and accessible. Most are very understanding and will work with you on your situation. Overall it is a good school, but I probably would have chosen somewhere else based off of the little funding and attention STEM gets.
Hannah - 05/14/2022
Lee University is a good school; however, it is extremely expensive. Students tend to pay around $32,000 a year just to live on campus (mandatory first year or transfer year) and to attend college. That isn't including books you have to purchase after the beginning of classes either. The school doesn't provide students with many scholarship options to help them pay for schooling either. When I first had a success coach meeting and explained that I was stressed about the financial strain going to Lee would cause, I was simply told to "get another job" after I'm already working as hard as I can to save up to go to this school. I am extremely disappointed in their staff and how they've spoken to me about finances and really hope they don't tell everyone to just "get another job". That's unacceptable Lee, do better.
Jennifer - 06/02/2020
Lee University is a great college. It is a private, Christian university so it is a bit smaller with about 5,000 students. The thing that makes Lee a great school are the academics and professors. Even the staff make you feel like you matter. We are important and the workers make us feel important. Professors are there for their students. Lee has a large amount of clubs and involvements for all students to get involved in. The community is unlike any college and it is a great place for students to get a Christian education.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Lee University is 87%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
Listen to your parents!! Take high school physics instead of choir or office aid. Take the hard teacher now while you have less responsibilities, because it will make the second time around (in college) a bit easier. Although high school seems hard, college is comletely different. High school teachers baby you. College professors know what it takes to succeed, so they push you harder. There are not many second chances, so you have to be organized and on time. Also, apply for as many scholarships as you can! It is not fun to try to work off those excessive college bills while trying to get used to college life. The essays will have been worth it when you don't have to work like crazy to do your homework and keep up with two jobs. Another thing: start healthy eating and exercise habits early. If you aren't used to making a daily work out a priority when your day is less full, you definitely won't find yourself in the gym with a college workload on your mind. It is important to have this habit since it will reduce your stress levels (and your growing waistline!) Good luck!
The best thing about Lee is how Christ-centered it is. Nearly everything done on campus is for God's glory, so in turn, everything on campus ends up being the best thing about Lee University. Students are taught how to show Christ's love here and how to do everything for the glory of the Kingdom. Even students who are not Christians feel loved and accepted because the professors and administration know how to show the love of Christ. The actual daily demonstration of Christ is the best thing about Lee.
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
The nature and expense of the mealplan is frustrating. Although there is good food as far as school cafeterias go, and a chick-fil-a, Dunkin' doughnuts, and Eintstein's Bagels, and Subway on campus where one can use a meal, the meal plan is expensive and only translates to about $4.00 when buying something from one of the on-campus food places.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
Every student is required to complete a cross-cultural experience. Most students choose to go on one of the international trips run by different professors from the school, however there is also an option to build your own cross-cultural experience. There are giudlines for how much time must be spent with those of another cultural background and daily events and reflection must be written and turned in for both school, and individually arranged experiences. Every student I've talked to about their cross-cultural experience(s) has said how much it changed him or her in extremely positive ways.
The type of person who should attend Lee is a person who values highly their education, but also wants the college experience as a whole. College and the amazing reputation it has is made by students who get involved in things around campus and truly take on what it is to attend college. They do not sit in their room all day and keep to themselves, they seek to not only receive an education that is dreamed of, but to become the person they have dreamt of being their whole life. That's who someone becomes by attending Lee.
Lee University is best known for its music and religion programs. But it also has great science, business, and education departments too. Lee is a Church of God affiliated school, and we have chapel on Sunday nights and Tuesday and Thursday mornings.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
The availability of classes is not cool at all. Some classes are only offered fall semester every other year, or something crazy like that, and you never know which ones they are and your advisor usually fails to tell you. The selection of summer classes is limited as well.
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?
I boast about how wonderful the atmosphere and worship is here at Lee University. It's like going to a church conference with your friends everyday. Fellow classmates, roommates, and teachers encourage you everyday with love and support. You feel God's presence in your life through the people here. It is said that Lee is one of the most extroverted campuses in the nation and it's clearly demonstarted to me on a day-to-day basis.
On a scale of 1-10, I give it 7.5 so far. Some classes (my major for example) are very challenging and require alot of reading. Others such as my Old Testament class, are simple enough that anyone could pass. Professors are GREAT thus far, and classes are reasonable in size and no TA's so far!!!! And yes, many do know you by name, so you are more than a number to most of them.
Lee is a small (roughly 4200 students) liberal arts school in Cleveland, Tn. The surrounding town is pretty boring, but is growing each year. Chattanooga is only 30 min and Knoxville is about 1 hour, both of which offer alot more to do especially for UT football fans. Atlanta and Nashville are around 2-2.5 hours, and offer tons of recreation for when you have free time and money. The administration has been good so far, and were very helpful when I transfered in. The school itself is very clean and well kept, all of the buildings use matching architecture and several of them are brand new. They were short on housing this semester, so keep this in mind of you apply later in the year. parking is also an issue to a degree and commuting students should keep that in mind. School pride is quite evident, despite our lack of a football team. Basketball and soccer are huge, and we frequently play bigger schools and fare very well.
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?
That we all love Jesus and will find our soul mates during our time at Lee. This is false. Not everyone on campus loves Jesus. Yes, people find their soul mates, but that's not a guarantee.
The must take class at Lee is American History with Barnett. You may walk in dreading history, but you'll walk out loving him and you'll have actually learned something...and you'll remember it.
What is the stereotype of students at your school?
I have yet to hear any, but if I had to guess some might be that they are all white, Southern, Christian, and Republican, given that Lee is a private liberal arts school in southeastern Tennessee.
Is the stereotype of students at your school accurate?
Somewhat. I'd say the majority are Christian, but only a relatively small amount are politically active.
For the most part, I think most anybody except highly active left-wing progressives would be comfortable here.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
96% of students attending Lee University receive some sort of financial aid.
38% were awarded federal grants.84%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.
